For many years, the craft world has used the term spun cotton shapes to describe lightweight decorative craft blanks used for painting, decorating, and DIY projects.
At Spunnys, we’ve used that name too — simply because it was familiar and what most people searched for.
Over time, however, we felt it was important to be more accurate and transparent about the product itself. These shapes are not made from cotton. Instead, they’re made from soft paper that is spun into solid, symmetrical craft shapes.
That’s why we are transitioning to the term spun paper shapes — a name that better reflects both how the product is made and what it truly is.
👉 Want to learn more about what spun paper shapes are and how to use them? Check out our full guide here.
Spun Paper Shapes vs. Traditional Spun Cotton Shapes
What People Traditionally Called Spun Cotton Shapes
Historically, spun cotton shapes referred to handmade craft figures made by:
• Building a wire or metal frame
• Wrapping cotton fibers around the frame by hand
• Layering and shaping the cotton
• Painting and decorating the finished piece
These handmade spun cotton creations still exist and remain beautiful examples of traditional craftsmanship. But when machine-made paper shapes became common, the name carried over even though the material had changed.
What Spun Paper Shapes Are and How They Are Made
Spun paper shapes are created using a mechanical spinning process that forms soft paper into solid, lightweight craft blanks.
In this process, soft paper enters a shaped mold and is rapidly spun around a central axis, building up layers of paper fibers until a smooth, symmetrical shape is formed. Once complete, the shape dries and becomes ready for decorating.
Spun paper shapes are:
• Solid (not hollow)
• Lightweight
• Smooth and easy to decorate
• Made entirely from paper fibers
This manufacturing approach is what makes them ideal for DIY craft projects of all kinds.
A More Eco-Friendly Craft Material
We’re especially excited about spun paper shapes because of their sustainability. Our shapes are made from FSC-certified paper sourced from responsibly managed forests, supporting forest conservation, responsible harvesting, and long-term sustainability.
In an industry where many craft blanks are plastic or foam, spun paper shapes offer a more environmentally thoughtful alternative that aligns with a future of greener crafting. believe this makes them not only a wonderful creative material, but also a product aligned with the future.
Why This Product Inspires Us
Spun paper shapes are remarkably versatile. Beyond classic paint-and-decorate projects, they are perfect for:
• DIY seasonal projects
• Home décor accents
• Educational tools
• Creative installations
Their lightweight nature and smooth surface make them easy to work with — whether you’re painting, gluing, covering with fabric, or adding glitter.
Respecting Tradition While Moving Forward
We deeply respect the history of true spun cotton crafts and the artisans who continue that tradition. That’s precisely why it’s important to clearly distinguish:
• Handmade cotton-based spun figures
• Machine-made paper-based spun shapes
By using the term spun paper shapes, we hope to avoid confusion, be transparent with our customers, and accurately represent the material.
During this transition, you may still see references to “spun cotton shapes” on our site to help people using the traditional name find us. Over time, however, our focus will continue to shift toward the more accurate and sustainable term: spun paper shapes.
Final Thoughts
Changing a long-used term isn’t something we take lightly. But accuracy, honesty, sustainability, and passion for our products matter deeply to us.
By choosing spun paper shapes, we’re embracing clarity and celebrating a craft material that feels both innovative and full of possibilities.
We’re excited for what’s ahead — and we can’t wait to see how you use spun paper shapes in your projects!